Group 21 - Spalding Blade 10 Speed Bicycle

Project Overview

As part of MAE 277: Introduction to Mechanical Engineering Practice at the University of Buffalo, we are required to participate in the course project. This project helps to provide context for the material taught in the class. We are given groups. Each group chooses a product that they will be working with and applying what they learned. Each gate deals with a different aspect of the engineering design process. We are to finish the tasks given in each gate, using proper technical communication, providing pictures, videos, tables, anything that will make it easier for the reader to follow our thought process.

Product Background

The product we have decided on for dissection is the bicycle. There has been some discrepancy on exactly when the first bicycle was first invented. However, in the early 1800’s, there was a commercially used bicycle known as the “running machine”. This originated in Germany, had a seat, and two wheels, but was not powered by petals and the mechanical mechanisms the bicycle is known for today. The consumer would run on the ground straddling the bike. Pedals and hand cranks would come out a few decades later. These early designs and innovations have helped create the product that the people of today use not only for travel, but for exercise as well. In American during the 1970’s, bike sales doubled when people of that time became more conscious of staying healthy and exercise. Since then, designers have been looking for ways to make the bike lighter, as well as more potable. Consumers are always interested in their products going faster and having more power. Bike companies have also been working on that as well. This product can be found in most toy stores and major “one stop shops” such as Wal-Mart. We feel this product’s significance in American society is becoming more prominent because of the continual heightened health awareness. Also, because of heightened gas prices, there is a decrease in a need for cheaper transportation. For these reasons, we believe this would be a good product to dissect and learn more about.